The death toll from the Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo has climbed to an estimated 131, following 513 suspected cases, according to Health Minister Samuel Roger Kamba in a statement aired on state television.
Health authorities confirmed that the outbreak involves the Bundibugyo strain of the Ebola virus, for which there is currently no approved vaccine or specific treatment.
Ebola outbreaks across Africa have claimed more than 15,000 lives over the past 50 years.
Officials said the epicenter of the outbreak is located in Ituri province in northeastern DR Congo, near the borders with Uganda and South Sudan.
However, Congolese authorities warned that the virus may already be spreading beyond the region, with suspected cases reported in North Kivu province and the city of Goma.
The government and international health agencies are continuing efforts to contain the outbreak and prevent further transmission.
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